India and China Dominate Nepal’s Imports in First Month of FY 2082/83

Kathmandu – Nepal’s import data for the first month of FY 2082/83 (Mid-July to Mid-August 2025) shows a clear dominance of India and China, with the two neighbors together accounting for more than two-thirds of the country’s imports. According to the Department of Customs, Nepal imported goods worth over Rs. 1.43 trillion during this period.

India remained Nepal’s largest supplier, with imports valued at Rs. 83.54 billion, representing about 58.4% of the total imports. China followed in second place with imports worth Rs. 27.99 billion, further highlighting Nepal’s dependence on these two countries for manufactured goods, petroleum, electronics, and industrial products.

The United States stood third, supplying goods worth Rs. 15.15 billion, while Argentina came in fourth with imports of Rs. 9.12 billion. Malaysia ranked fifth with Rs. 11.13 billion worth of imports.

Other countries in the top 10 import list include Indonesia (Rs. 18.55 billion), Japan (Rs. 10.72 billion), South Korea (Rs. 5.63 billion), Germany (Rs. 3.80 billion), and France (Rs. 4.62 billion).

Top 10 Import Partner Countries (Shrawan, FY 2082/83)

1. India – Rs. 83.54 billion

2. China – Rs. 27.99 billion

3. United States – Rs. 15.15 billion

4. Argentina – Rs. 9.12 billion

5. Malaysia – Rs. 11.13 billion

6. Indonesia – Rs. 18.55 billion

7. Japan – Rs. 10.72 billion

8. South Korea – Rs. 5.63 billion

9. Germany – Rs. 3.80 billion

10. France – Rs. 4.62 billion

The figures clearly reflect Nepal’s high import dependency, especially on India and China. Imports mainly consist of petroleum products, vehicles, machinery, electronic items, and industrial raw materials. This heavy reliance contributes significantly to the country’s growing trade deficit.

Economists stress the need for import substitution industries, export diversification, and promotion of high-value agricultural and handicraft products to narrow the persistent trade gap.